It’s all part of the process!
Dealing with a setback is a part of reaching any goal. We all hit them, but it is how you react to them that will ultimately define the success of what it is you are seeking to achieve. Are you one to emotionally spin out of control or get discourage easily? Or do you grab a hold of the situation with a firm grip? Whatever the situation, whether it be a school assignment, a work project, a volunteer mission, or a personal endeavor, we all encounter obstacles that slow us down. You just have to keep in mind that a setback is only temporary and greater things lay ahead.
It’s easy to just quit, give up and ignore the hard work you’ve already put into something. But personally, I believe in the “two steps forward, one step back” philosophy. It’s a healthy way to keep checks and balances while reevaluating what is and isn’t working. So what if something bad happens? You’ve already built a solid foundation on which you can rely. Keep moving forward, developing what you have using those setbacks as turning points that will ultimately lead you to your set goal.
So how can you react when something doesn’t turn out as you’ve expected? First, be objective. Step back and look at the situation. Take responsibility where it is due, but don’t place blame on others. Is your setback really that significant, or will it just require a little extra exertion on your part? Come to terms with it and then start planning your next move. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for outside help. Oftentimes, people are more than willing to give you support and advice, maybe even after being in a similar situation. You don’t have to be perfect; after all, nobody else is.
Goals should be realistic and specific, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be flexible and allow for tweaks and adjustments. Instead of looking at your project as a disaster or failure, view it with success. Concentrate on how great it will feel after it is finally done, after you have put your all into it. Instead of focusing on a possible unsatisfactory performance one single time, take a moment to sit back and reward yourself for all that you have accomplished.
Above all, don’t live with regrets. Approach life with perseverance and dedication to the things that matter most to you. Success is never easy. It remains up to you whether you will give up, or fight through the tough times to earn whatever it is you want.
Keep reaching for your goals and moving forward and you will achieve them. Minor setbacks are nothing if you really want something and are willing to commit to yourself and work for it.
